What is all the fuss about Simon Kjaer…this object of PL affections?

A reported target for Manchester United, Chelsea and Liverpool as well as AC Milan and Real Madrid, Simon Kjaer is one of the most sought after players in Europe. The 20-year-old Danish centre-back currently plays his football for Palermo but the likelihood is that he will move on in the summer. Despite being linked with January moves to the Premier League, the player is thought to be averse to a mid-season move for fear of damaging his World Cup prospects.

Kjaer started out with FC Midtjylland in 2007 but did not stay in Denmark for a prolonged period of time after his impressive debut season. He was named the Danish under-19 talent of the year and was the subject of interest from Liverpool and Middlesborough. Real Madrid also made a bid for the player at this time but were unsuccessful in their attempts to take the player to Spain.

Kjaer moved to Palermo in 2008 and has established himself as a key part of the Italian side’s defence despite his relatively young age. He is strong in the air and comfortable with the ball at his feet. His positional sense is very impressive for one so young and while there is room for improvement it is clear that he has all the attributes to be a top defender.

The player is a Liverpool fan but he has not ruled out a move to any other clubs. The opportunity to play with his fellow Dane Daniel Agger would be an attractive proposition for him. There is interest from a number of clubs, AC Milan consider Kjaer as a possible long-term replacement for Alessandro Nesta while Juventus have recently joined the hunt for the player. Machester United’s defensive worries combined with Nemanja Vidic’s uncertain future also puts them in the running for the young Dane’s signature.

The chairman of Palermo has already announced what the asking price is for the player (€12 million) and it is believed that this would activate a minimum fee release clause in the player’s contract. It is not an unreasonable amount of money for one of Europe’s most promising young defenders and an impressive showing at the World Cup should ensure a move for Kjaer, he would be a welcome addition to the Premie League.